Test: Hot Pants from Vaude, now also for bikers

Vaude presents short bike pants with Prima-Loft lining. Until now, this material has only been used in jackets and sleeping bags. The "Minaki Shorts" are worn alone or as a second layer over long bike pants.

First impression/out of the box
Vaude's workmanship is of the usual high quality. The cut is casual, neither too tight nor too wide. The fit can be individually adjusted using a Velcro fastener in the waistband. The pants are very lightweight for the colder seasons. They feature a clever mix of materials, with a robust, water-repellent stretch material on the knees and seat. Two long two-way zippers help to control the ventilation as required. The only thing you won't find is a trouser pocket.

On the bike
The Minaki is very comfortable to wear and you hardly feel it. Even in double-digit sub-zero temperatures, they provide perfect protection from the cold when combined with a long thermal bib. Splashing water can't harm them, but we can't say for sure about rain. Because this is in short supply in Davos in winter.

Conclusion
The Vaude Minaki has quickly become our favorite piece for winter rides. You've rarely been so warm in the backside. It has truly earned the title of "hot pant". Even after around 10 washes, they show no sign of weakness or wear. The pants are recommended for bikers who don't want to miss out on winter rides.

We miss a trouser pocket, unfortunately nothing can be stowed in the trousers. But that is also the only weak point of the Minaki.

www.vaude.ch